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Since its inauguration on September 12, 2005, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort has provided guests with a unique perspective on Disney storytelling. As the park approaches its 20th anniversary in 2025, the celebrations are set to commence on June 28, featuring an array of new entertainment options and the park’s most elaborate parade to date.
Michael Moriarty, managing director of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, expressed enthusiasm about the anniversary celebrations: “We’re thrilled to kick off The Most Magical Party of All on June 28. Our incredible cast members are putting their all into getting everything ready for the year-long party. This milestone celebration will be filled with immersive entertainment, extraordinary moments, and boundless Disney magic and surprises — we cannot wait to welcome everyone from around the globe to [Hong Kong Disneyland Resort’s] most unforgettable celebration yet.”
The historic growth of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
In recent years, the park has seen significant expansions and refurbishments, highlighted by the transformation of Sleeping Beauty Castle into the Castle of Magical Dreams. This major upgrade, introduced during the park’s 15th anniversary, is inspired by 13 Disney princess narratives and represents a departure from the traditional singular-princess theme.
In fiscal year 2024, the resort achieved a record attendance of 7.7 million guests, marking a 21% increase from the prior year and pushing total attendance past 106 million since its opening. Financially, the park reported a notable net profit of HK$838 million (approximately $108 million USD), a remarkable 54% rise year-over-year, influenced by the introduction of the new Frozen-themed area, World of Frozen, in November 2023.
Three new entertainment offerings at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort
With the 20th anniversary approaching, the Castle of Magical Dreams is expected to serve as the centerpiece for various entertainment experiences. Paul Rivet, executive Director of Entertainment at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, stated, “Guests will embark on a day-to-night magical party that builds excitement as the day unfolds. Our 20th anniversary celebration also showcases how Disney entertainment has evolved to new heights. Get ready for three unmissable entertainment experiences, from our brand-new anniversary-only castle stage show, largest-ever parade to the grandest nighttime spectacular in [Hong Kong Disneyland Resort’s] history, elevating the party vibes to an unprecedented level!”
The highlight of the entertainment lineup is the new “Friendtastic! Parade,” touted as the largest in park history. Spanning approximately 30 minutes, the parade will feature 11 floats inspired by films from Walt Disney Animation Studios and Pixar Animation Studios, including Zootopia, Big Hero 6, Up, and Toy Story. Over 100 performers, including more than 30 beloved Disney characters such as Mickey and Friends, Duffy and Friends, and various Disney Princesses, will participate.
Additionally, park visitors can enjoy an anniversary-exclusive show titled “Disney Friends Live: Party at the Castle!” This engaging 15-minute performance will feature popular music, dance, interactive character moments, and large balloons. The nighttime entertainment will culminate in “Momentous: Party in the Night Sky!” — a stunning nearly 30-minute show that will blend large-scale 3D projection mapping, drone visuals, and water projections along Main Street, U.S.A.
Other highlights of the 20th anniversary celebration
No celebration at Disney is complete without themed culinary offerings. For its 20th anniversary, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort will introduce over 80 new food and beverage options, including a Duffy and Friends-themed afternoon tea and family-style feasts featuring flatbreads and drinks.
The kickoff will also include the launch of six collections of anniversary-specific merchandise, introducing over 300 new items. These initiatives are designed to capitalize on the ever-growing market, with per capita guest spending in fiscal 2024 rising by 28% compared to the previous year. This momentum from new offerings is expected to further boost guest spending.
With these exciting updates, the 20th anniversary celebration of Hong Kong Disneyland Resort promises to be a memorable occasion as it looks ahead to the next two decades of enchanting storytelling.
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www.forbes.com